3 Bowlers with Most Wickets in ODI
Published on: Jul 26, 2023 11:47 am IST|Updated on: Jul 26, 2023 11:47 am IST
Over the years, some legendary bowlers have left a lasting impact with their ability to bamboozle batsmen and claim wickets consistently. Let’s delve into the performances of three extraordinary bowlers who stand tall among as Most Wickets in ODI cricket history.
| Player | Matches | Wkts | Best Figures | Bowling Average | Strike Rate | 5-fer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Muttiah Muralitharan | 350 | 534 | 7/30 | 23.08 | 35.22 | 10 |
| Wasim Akram | 351 | 502 | 5/15 | 23.52 | 36.22 | 6 |
| Waqar Younis | 262 | 416 | 7/36 | 23.84 | 30.52 | 13 |
1. Muttiah Muralitharan – 534
Muttiah Muralitharan, the Sri Lankan spin maestro, has redefined the art of spin bowling in ODI cricket. With a mesmerizing repertoire of variations, he claimed a whopping 534 wickets in just 350 matches. Known for his lethal “doosra” and uncanny ability to deceive batsmen with subtle changes in flight and spin, Muralitharan bamboozled even the best of batters. His best ODI figures of 7/30 against India remain etched in memory as a testament to his match-winning abilities. Muralitharan’s bowling average of 23.08 and impressive 10 five-wicket hauls highlight his sheer dominance in the limited-overs format.
2. Wasim Akram – 502
Wasim Akram, the legendary Pakistani left-arm fast bowler, was a sight to behold with his ability to swing the ball both ways at blistering pace. In his illustrious ODI career, he picked up an astounding 502 wickets in 351 matches. Akram’s trademark reverse swing and toe-crushing yorkers made him a nightmare for batsmen, especially in the death overs. His best ODI figures of 5/15 against the West Indies showcased his knack for delivering on the big stage. With a bowling average of 23.52 and six five-wicket hauls, Wasim Akram remains one of the greatest pace bowlers in ODI history.
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3. Waqar Younis – 416
Waqar Younis, the Pakistani pace sensation and partner in crime with Wasim Akram, completes the trio of top wicket-takers in ODI cricket. In 262 matches, Waqar scalped a commendable 416 wickets with his lethal inswinging yorkers and searing pace. His ability to generate reverse swing with the old ball made him a genuine threat throughout the innings. Waqar’s best ODI figures of 7/36 against England exemplify his ability to run through batting lineups. With a bowling average of 23.84 and an impressive 13 five-wicket hauls, Waqar Younis was an integral part of Pakistan’s formidable bowling attack.
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